If you believe you are in immediate danger, call 911.

• Choose a safe place to go if you leave your home.
• Practice getting out of your home safely by identifying escape routes.
• Pack a bag and keep it at the home of a close relative or friend.
• Identify one or more neighbors who you can ask to call the police if they hear a disturbance coming from your home.
• Devise a code word or signal to use with your children, family, friends and neighbors when you need the police.
• If you believe an argument or incident is going to occur, leave if possible. If not, try to move to a room where you have access to an exit and/or a phone. Stay away from any room without an outside door or window or a room with items that could be used as weapons such as a kitchen or garage.
• Use your own instincts and judgment. If the situation is very dangerous, do whatever is necessary to be safe. This may mean giving the abuser what they want to calm them down.
• If possible, keep your cell phone with you at all times.